lucky 8

lucky 8 UNDP in collaboration with The Daily Star organised a roundtable titled 'Climate-Resilient Cooperatives to Green SMEs: Enabling Resilience for Climate Vulnerable Women' on November 12, 2024. Here we publish a summary of the discussion. A K M Azad Rahman, Project Coordinator, LoGIC, UNDP (Key-Note Speaker) The LoGIC Project is a collaborative initiative of the Embassy of Sweden, the Embassy of Denmark, UNDP Bangladesh, and UNCDF, implemented by the Local Government Division of the Government of Bangladesh (GoB). The project provides support to 500,000 vulnerable households across nine districts and 94 Union Parishads, as well as 29 Upazila Parishads, local communities, civil society organisations (CSOs), local institutions, and government officials. Among these, 42,500 individuals—99% of them are women—have received direct assistance, with a primary focus on climate-vulnerable regions. The journey began with efforts to reduce household vulnerabilities. Over time, we have supported beneficiaries in forming small groups to establish green businesses. These groups are now generating profits, confidently managing their climate adaptive livelihood, and making small-scale investments within their communities. To scale up these initiatives into medium-sized enterprises, a collaborative approach to pooling resources is crucial. Recognising the importance of sustainability after the project concludes, we identified the need for a legal framework, and cooperatives emerged as the most suitable model. Cooperatives have a proven track record in empowering vulnerable communities, building climate resilience, and enabling women to establish adaptive green businesses. Following sustained advocacy, the cooperatives division approved a new category for climate-vulnerable cooperatives. These cooperatives pool resources from members, including women shareholders, to invest in green small and medium enterprises (SMEs), thereby creating opportunities for green businesses and ensuring sustainability through a transformative approach. Within the LoGIC Project, 247 cooperatives have been established, of which 99 have already invested in green businesses. Among these, 14 cooperatives are in a revenue-generation cycle, collectively earning around BDT 500,000, demonstrating promising momentum. The portfolio of green SMEs includes eco-friendly agricultural farms, climate-smart agriculture, handicrafts, sanitation product businesses, vermicompost production, solar-powered poultry incubators, honey collection and sales, agro-feed production using local raw materials, plastic recycling factories, natural and safe dry fish processing, commercial aquaculture, coconut oil processing, coco peat production, Areca leaf-based eco-products, bioflock fish culture, and eco-friendly bag manufacturing. LoGIC project introduced a software system regulated by the cooperatives division and operated by young people from beneficiary communities. This system ensures transparency by sending automatic SMS notifications to all members whenever funds are withdrawn, fostering trust within the cooperatives. Despite these advancements, challenges persist. Transitioning from informal groups to cooperatives and then to green SMEs is complex. Establishing sustainable enterprises is a long-term endeavour, often requiring five to ten years to gauge success. Additionally, innovative business models can be difficult to adopt, and remote locations often hinder market linkages. Engaging youth in these enterprises can be transformative, as it builds capacity and strengthens market linkages with organisations such as Amal Foundation and iGrow. Collaboration with government line departments is vital for technical support, and risk insurance is necessary to manage high-risk areas. Ultimately, the sustainability of cooperatives hinges on innovation, effective risk management, community cooperation, and access to grants and larger funding sources. Nayoka Martinez Bäckström, First Secretary, Embassy of Sweden Since 2016, we have been actively involved in the LoGIC project, which has had a transformative impact on both systems and individuals, particularly on vulnerable women. Many of these women are now empowered to make informed economic decisions—a cornerstone of the LoGIC resilience model. Rather than prescribing solutions, the project enables women to find out their own options, whether in agriculture or market access, based on their unique circumstances. A key recommendation is to connect these women with other government sectors, such as the Ministry of Agriculture or Fisheries, which are developing climate-resilient products. This linkage will provide women access to new technologies and enable them to adapt to evolving conditions. Building strong relationships with these actors is essential to ensure that women can continue making informed choices even after the project concludes. Additionally, categorising SMEs and cooperatives into appropriate classifications is critical, as lending to these entities involves varying levels of risk assessment. Learning from global best practices, such as those from Kenya, can guide necessary policy and regulatory reforms. With regulatory support, women-led enterprises, which are already investing in land and infrastructure, can expand and seize new opportunities. Syed Matiul Ahsan , Programme Adviser/Development, Embassy of Denmark While discussing financing, it is essential to identify potential grantees. LoGIC has achieved remarkable progress in localising funds and empowering women, which is commendable. Defining clear criteria for what qualifies as a green SME or a green product is crucial. Equally important is developing a roadmap for post-project support mechanisms to sustain these initiatives over the long term. Collaboration with the government, private sector, and other stakeholders will be key to achieving this sustainability. Maintaining market access and leveraging technological advancements are critical for the growth and resilience of these enterprises. Creating an online platform for SMEs to market their products could be transformative. Dr. Tania Haque, Professor, Department of Women & Gender Studies, Dhaka University Green SMEs offer a promising solution to address the climate crisis while supporting vulnerable populations, especially women. However, effectively implementing this solution requires careful preparation and nuanced strategies. Comparative analysis shows that women are disproportionately vulnerable to climate impacts, yet project designs often oversimplify their needs. It is crucial to recognise that women are not a homogenous group. Multiple variables and their unique circumstances must be considered. . While empowering women through income-generating opportunities is essential, it is equally important to address the double burden they face in balancing work and household responsibilities. Time poverty is a significant challenge that must be accounted for in project design. Furthermore, creating a gender-neutral market system is essential to ensure equal access and opportunities for women. Esrat Karim Eve , Founder, Amal Foundtaion We have closely worked with beneficiaries of the LoGIC project the positive changes within these communities are truly remarkable. Market linkage is critical for ensuring sustainability of the positive changes. A significant challenge we have observed is the high logistics costs in coastal areas, where farmers face inflated prices due to the involvement of multiple middlemen. Addressing this issue will require better coordination among organisations, businesses, and cooperatives to establish a more efficient market system. It is crucial for the project to continue thriving organically after external support. This entails creating sustainable systems, such as circular economic chains, and empowering local communities to sustain their progress independently. I urge all colleagues to contribute their expertise to ensure the long-term success of these initiatives. M Khurshed Alam Ph.D (Sociology) , Chairman, Bangladesh Institute of Social Research (BISR) The LoGIC project has made significant strides, particularly in securing government approval for the cooperative model, despite the strict compliance requirements imposed by the Department of Cooperatives. The collapse of many cooperatives due to regulatory pressures underscores the need for policy revisions that are more practical, field-oriented, and supportive of cooperative sustainability. A critical issue is the lack of insurance for cooperative members, especially women, who often juggle multiple responsibilities. Identifying which agencies—such as the Department of Cooperatives or the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs—should spearhead these efforts is vital for providing institutional backing. For green SMEs, there remains confusion over what qualifies as "green," making it essential to establish clear criteria. Any cooperative initiative must also align with local realities, as on-the-ground challenges often hinder the pursuit of green SME activities. Strengthening market linkages and connecting cooperatives with Upazila-level associations can bolster resilience. M. Parvez Kaosar Sarkar , AGM (Deputy Head of SME Department), Bangladesh Krishi Bank At Bangladesh Krishi Bank, we offer green financing support under Bangladesh Bank's packages and operate our own SME system. However, a basic legal framework is necessary to ensure that the social segments we aim to support, particularly those from lower socio-economic strata, receive adequate assistance. As a financial institution, our primary product is capital, and we need assurance on how borrowers will repay their loans. Without the ability to market their products effectively, borrowers may struggle to generate returns. Insurance plays a vital role in mitigating risks, helping vulnerable groups sustain and grow their businesses. Sharing risks through market assurance and supportive facilities would enable us to confidently finance these enterprises. Shakhawat Hossan , Joint Director, Sustainable Finance Department, Bangladesh Bank Bangladesh Bank has made significant strides in promoting sustainable finance and identifying green projects. A sustainable finance policy introduced in 2020 and updated in 2023 outlines support for green SMEs under three pillars: inclusive financing, climate resilience, and transitioning to a low-carbon economy. ESG guidelines further require all loans to comply with an Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) checklist to ensure low-risk, green financing. Currently, the banking sector's sustainable finance portfolio stands at BDT 4,000 billion, including BDT 3,000 billion for SMEs and BDT 800 billion for green SMEs. However, challenges persist, including limited stakeholder awareness, the high cost of sustainable technology, and an insufficient certification infrastructure. Since 2011, Bangladesh Bank has addressed these challenges by establishing sustainable finance desks and promoting women-centric lending. Initiatives include issuing circulars on climate-related disclosures aligned with IFRS standards and the Climate Vulnerability Index (CVI). Banks are also required to report semi-annually on climate risks, with a focus on vulnerable areas. Mousumi Pervin , Senior Climate Change Officer, Asian Development Bank Advancing SMEs requires a focus on four critical areas. Firstly, strengthening value chains is essential. While women in remote areas produce high-quality green products, broken value chains and limited market access—exacerbated by poor communication infrastructure and social barriers—hinder their progress. Secondly, access to advanced green technology is crucial. Many women still rely on traditional methods, but adopting modern sustainable technologies could significantly enhance productivity and expand market reach. Thirdly, capacity building must be prioritised. Women often struggle with bureaucratic processes and complex documentation. Comprehensive training can empower them to navigate these challenges confidently. Lastly, creating networking opportunities is vital. Many women lack knowledge about where to sell their products. Connecting them to urban markets, such as green product outlets in Dhaka, can enhance their visibility and profitability. Nazim Hossain Sattar, General Manager, SME Foundation In recent years, green compliance and climate resilience have gained significant traction within Bangladesh's SME sector. As the leading SME development agency, the SME Foundation actively supports women entrepreneurs, who frequently employ other women, thereby fostering wider female workforce participation. Recognising the impact of climate challenges, the foundation has introduced tailored packages for climate-vulnerable and green-focused women entrepreneurs. However, a significant gap remains in awareness, particularly among rural women-led SMEs. To address this, the foundation is organising workshops, video campaigns, and roadshows, while also establishing model green SMEs in regions such as Khulna, Cox's Bazar, and Rangpur to inspire others. The foundation is also developing green compliance guidelines and a platform to connect existing green SMEs with aspirants for collaboration and knowledge-sharing. It has initiated referral and consultation reporting to bridge rural-urban gaps, with results from ongoing applications expected soon. Lastly, fostering green finance will require collective stakeholder efforts, with a focus on promoting "associations" over cooperatives for securing loans. M Zakir Hossain Khan , Chief Executive, Change Initiative The green microfinancing and microcredit initiative targeting vulnerable women is more than a transformative programme—it is a tool for empowerment. Women impacted by natural or man-made disasters, often trapped in cycles of debt, will benefit significantly from this initiative. We also need to prioritise the adoption of innovative technologies, such as apps to streamline supply chains, and alternative energy solutions like rooftop solar systems. Md. Ruhul Amin, Chief Executive Officer, Countree Agro Our work in agribusiness engages producers from char regions and climate-affected coastal areas. Projects are being implemented across six upazilas in three districts, focusing on promoting green products and creating a rural-urban continuum. We encourage supermarkets and food processing companies to actively address the needs of climate-vulnerable areas. Beyond traditional gender distinctions, we aim to foster a more structured and inclusive development model within SMEs. Syed Muntasir Ridwan , Co-Executive Director, Bangladesh Youth Environmental Initiative (BYEI) While discussing green initiatives, it is vital to consider ecological factors. For instance, coconuts, which grow naturally in certain regions, are inherently climate-resilient. Establishing a corresponding value chain can enhance climate resilience and efficiency. Youth can contribute by participating in cooperative networks that drive positive change. For primary producers, the existing market structure often complicates pricing negotiations. Organised supply chains, buyer identification, and buy-back guarantees are essential to overcome these challenges. Dr. Maliha Muzammil, Climate Change Specialist, Resilience and Inclusive Growth (RIG) Cluster, UNDP Bangladesh Three years ago, a study conducted with Kingston University London and IID Dhaka revealed that single-women-headed households in vulnerable areas bear three times the expenses of double-income households. This finding highlights how empowering women can directly benefit families and underscores the urgent need to prioritise innovative private financing solutions. Currently, UNDP Bangladesh is collaborating with the SME Foundation, Bangladesh Bank, and BSEC to identify financing bottlenecks for climate-resilient cooperatives and develop a blended finance facility for green SMEs in vulnerable areas. In collaboration with Bangladesh Bank, we are utilising LoGIC's climate vulnerability index (CVI) to rank unions across the country. Bangladesh Bank is also assisting in the development of a climate damage function, which will be based on micro-level data from this CVI. This function will help quantify the social and financial impacts of the climate crisis. Strengthening linkages from local to national levels is crucial for effective impact monitoring, expanding private sector financing, and ensuring thematic bond proceeds reach the most vulnerable. Sonali Dayaratne , Deputy Resident Representative, UNDP Bangladesh Having spent 15 months in Bangladesh, I am deeply inspired by the resilience and creativity of its people. Grassroots implementation has been both humbling and enlightening. Despite enduring over five disasters this year, which affected 18 million people, Bangladesh remains a global leader in climate resilience. Efforts in agriculture and vulnerable communities deserve global recognition for driving meaningful change. UNDP, in partnership with Bangladesh Bank, the SME Foundation, and development agencies from Sweden and Denmark, is focused on scaling initiatives for wider impact. While pilot projects offer valuable insights, the true challenge lies in replicating transformational change across communities. To achieve this, financing and governance models must shift towards people-centred solutions, emphasising demand-driven approaches over supply-driven ones. Inclusion is crucial, especially for women-headed households and youth networks. Achieving sustainability in financing, service delivery, and market alignment is vital for success. To scale up initiatives like LoGIC and ensure long-term impact, collaborative efforts, innovative financing models, and public-private partnerships are essential. Tanjim Ferdous, In-Charge, NGOs & Foreign Missions, Business Development Section, The Daily Star The Local Government Initiative on Climate Change (LoGIC) project has demonstrated the potential of community-owned green enterprises to drive localised solutions. However, critical gaps remain in defining these enterprises, establishing supportive policies, and ensuring sustainable financing mechanisms. Recommendations Encourage the adoption of cooperatives as an effective model to empower vulnerable communities, strengthen climate resilience, and enable women to lead adaptive green business initiatives. Select climate-resilient, smart enterprises with short production cycles that utilise local raw materials and cater to strong local demand. Introduce insurance schemes tailored for climate-vulnerable cooperative members, particularly women. Encourage youth participation in cooperatives to build capacity and strengthen market connections. Strengthen market linkages by establishing connections between cooperatives and Upazila-level associations. Facilitate networking opportunities for women entrepreneurs by connecting them to urban markets, while promoting a gender-neutral market system to ensure equal access and opportunities for their success. Prioritise collaborative efforts, innovative financing, and public-private partnerships to scale up programmes like LoGIC. Establish organised supply chains, identify reliable buyers, and implement buy-back guarantees to support SMEs. Promote innovative technologies and alternative energy solutions to streamline supply chains and ensure uninterrupted production. UNDP in collaboration with The Daily Star organised a roundtable titled 'Climate-Resilient Cooperatives to Green SMEs: Enabling Resilience for Climate Vulnerable Women' on November 12, 2024. Here we publish a summary of the discussion. A K M Azad Rahman, Project Coordinator, LoGIC, UNDP (Key-Note Speaker) The LoGIC Project is a collaborative initiative of the Embassy of Sweden, the Embassy of Denmark, UNDP Bangladesh, and UNCDF, implemented by the Local Government Division of the Government of Bangladesh (GoB). The project provides support to 500,000 vulnerable households across nine districts and 94 Union Parishads, as well as 29 Upazila Parishads, local communities, civil society organisations (CSOs), local institutions, and government officials. Among these, 42,500 individuals—99% of them are women—have received direct assistance, with a primary focus on climate-vulnerable regions. The journey began with efforts to reduce household vulnerabilities. Over time, we have supported beneficiaries in forming small groups to establish green businesses. These groups are now generating profits, confidently managing their climate adaptive livelihood, and making small-scale investments within their communities. To scale up these initiatives into medium-sized enterprises, a collaborative approach to pooling resources is crucial. Recognising the importance of sustainability after the project concludes, we identified the need for a legal framework, and cooperatives emerged as the most suitable model. Cooperatives have a proven track record in empowering vulnerable communities, building climate resilience, and enabling women to establish adaptive green businesses. Following sustained advocacy, the cooperatives division approved a new category for climate-vulnerable cooperatives. These cooperatives pool resources from members, including women shareholders, to invest in green small and medium enterprises (SMEs), thereby creating opportunities for green businesses and ensuring sustainability through a transformative approach. Within the LoGIC Project, 247 cooperatives have been established, of which 99 have already invested in green businesses. Among these, 14 cooperatives are in a revenue-generation cycle, collectively earning around BDT 500,000, demonstrating promising momentum. The portfolio of green SMEs includes eco-friendly agricultural farms, climate-smart agriculture, handicrafts, sanitation product businesses, vermicompost production, solar-powered poultry incubators, honey collection and sales, agro-feed production using local raw materials, plastic recycling factories, natural and safe dry fish processing, commercial aquaculture, coconut oil processing, coco peat production, Areca leaf-based eco-products, bioflock fish culture, and eco-friendly bag manufacturing. LoGIC project introduced a software system regulated by the cooperatives division and operated by young people from beneficiary communities. This system ensures transparency by sending automatic SMS notifications to all members whenever funds are withdrawn, fostering trust within the cooperatives. Despite these advancements, challenges persist. Transitioning from informal groups to cooperatives and then to green SMEs is complex. Establishing sustainable enterprises is a long-term endeavour, often requiring five to ten years to gauge success. Additionally, innovative business models can be difficult to adopt, and remote locations often hinder market linkages. Engaging youth in these enterprises can be transformative, as it builds capacity and strengthens market linkages with organisations such as Amal Foundation and iGrow. Collaboration with government line departments is vital for technical support, and risk insurance is necessary to manage high-risk areas. Ultimately, the sustainability of cooperatives hinges on innovation, effective risk management, community cooperation, and access to grants and larger funding sources. Nayoka Martinez Bäckström, First Secretary, Embassy of Sweden Since 2016, we have been actively involved in the LoGIC project, which has had a transformative impact on both systems and individuals, particularly on vulnerable women. Many of these women are now empowered to make informed economic decisions—a cornerstone of the LoGIC resilience model. Rather than prescribing solutions, the project enables women to find out their own options, whether in agriculture or market access, based on their unique circumstances. A key recommendation is to connect these women with other government sectors, such as the Ministry of Agriculture or Fisheries, which are developing climate-resilient products. This linkage will provide women access to new technologies and enable them to adapt to evolving conditions. Building strong relationships with these actors is essential to ensure that women can continue making informed choices even after the project concludes. Additionally, categorising SMEs and cooperatives into appropriate classifications is critical, as lending to these entities involves varying levels of risk assessment. Learning from global best practices, such as those from Kenya, can guide necessary policy and regulatory reforms. With regulatory support, women-led enterprises, which are already investing in land and infrastructure, can expand and seize new opportunities. Syed Matiul Ahsan , Programme Adviser/Development, Embassy of Denmark While discussing financing, it is essential to identify potential grantees. LoGIC has achieved remarkable progress in localising funds and empowering women, which is commendable. Defining clear criteria for what qualifies as a green SME or a green product is crucial. Equally important is developing a roadmap for post-project support mechanisms to sustain these initiatives over the long term. Collaboration with the government, private sector, and other stakeholders will be key to achieving this sustainability. Maintaining market access and leveraging technological advancements are critical for the growth and resilience of these enterprises. Creating an online platform for SMEs to market their products could be transformative. Dr. Tania Haque, Professor, Department of Women & Gender Studies, Dhaka University Green SMEs offer a promising solution to address the climate crisis while supporting vulnerable populations, especially women. However, effectively implementing this solution requires careful preparation and nuanced strategies. Comparative analysis shows that women are disproportionately vulnerable to climate impacts, yet project designs often oversimplify their needs. It is crucial to recognise that women are not a homogenous group. Multiple variables and their unique circumstances must be considered. . While empowering women through income-generating opportunities is essential, it is equally important to address the double burden they face in balancing work and household responsibilities. Time poverty is a significant challenge that must be accounted for in project design. Furthermore, creating a gender-neutral market system is essential to ensure equal access and opportunities for women. Esrat Karim Eve , Founder, Amal Foundtaion We have closely worked with beneficiaries of the LoGIC project the positive changes within these communities are truly remarkable. Market linkage is critical for ensuring sustainability of the positive changes. A significant challenge we have observed is the high logistics costs in coastal areas, where farmers face inflated prices due to the involvement of multiple middlemen. Addressing this issue will require better coordination among organisations, businesses, and cooperatives to establish a more efficient market system. It is crucial for the project to continue thriving organically after external support. This entails creating sustainable systems, such as circular economic chains, and empowering local communities to sustain their progress independently. I urge all colleagues to contribute their expertise to ensure the long-term success of these initiatives. M Khurshed Alam Ph.D (Sociology) , Chairman, Bangladesh Institute of Social Research (BISR) The LoGIC project has made significant strides, particularly in securing government approval for the cooperative model, despite the strict compliance requirements imposed by the Department of Cooperatives. The collapse of many cooperatives due to regulatory pressures underscores the need for policy revisions that are more practical, field-oriented, and supportive of cooperative sustainability. A critical issue is the lack of insurance for cooperative members, especially women, who often juggle multiple responsibilities. Identifying which agencies—such as the Department of Cooperatives or the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs—should spearhead these efforts is vital for providing institutional backing. For green SMEs, there remains confusion over what qualifies as "green," making it essential to establish clear criteria. Any cooperative initiative must also align with local realities, as on-the-ground challenges often hinder the pursuit of green SME activities. Strengthening market linkages and connecting cooperatives with Upazila-level associations can bolster resilience. M. Parvez Kaosar Sarkar , AGM (Deputy Head of SME Department), Bangladesh Krishi Bank At Bangladesh Krishi Bank, we offer green financing support under Bangladesh Bank's packages and operate our own SME system. However, a basic legal framework is necessary to ensure that the social segments we aim to support, particularly those from lower socio-economic strata, receive adequate assistance. As a financial institution, our primary product is capital, and we need assurance on how borrowers will repay their loans. Without the ability to market their products effectively, borrowers may struggle to generate returns. Insurance plays a vital role in mitigating risks, helping vulnerable groups sustain and grow their businesses. Sharing risks through market assurance and supportive facilities would enable us to confidently finance these enterprises. Shakhawat Hossan , Joint Director, Sustainable Finance Department, Bangladesh Bank Bangladesh Bank has made significant strides in promoting sustainable finance and identifying green projects. A sustainable finance policy introduced in 2020 and updated in 2023 outlines support for green SMEs under three pillars: inclusive financing, climate resilience, and transitioning to a low-carbon economy. ESG guidelines further require all loans to comply with an Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) checklist to ensure low-risk, green financing. Currently, the banking sector's sustainable finance portfolio stands at BDT 4,000 billion, including BDT 3,000 billion for SMEs and BDT 800 billion for green SMEs. However, challenges persist, including limited stakeholder awareness, the high cost of sustainable technology, and an insufficient certification infrastructure. Since 2011, Bangladesh Bank has addressed these challenges by establishing sustainable finance desks and promoting women-centric lending. Initiatives include issuing circulars on climate-related disclosures aligned with IFRS standards and the Climate Vulnerability Index (CVI). Banks are also required to report semi-annually on climate risks, with a focus on vulnerable areas. Mousumi Pervin , Senior Climate Change Officer, Asian Development Bank Advancing SMEs requires a focus on four critical areas. Firstly, strengthening value chains is essential. While women in remote areas produce high-quality green products, broken value chains and limited market access—exacerbated by poor communication infrastructure and social barriers—hinder their progress. Secondly, access to advanced green technology is crucial. Many women still rely on traditional methods, but adopting modern sustainable technologies could significantly enhance productivity and expand market reach. Thirdly, capacity building must be prioritised. Women often struggle with bureaucratic processes and complex documentation. Comprehensive training can empower them to navigate these challenges confidently. Lastly, creating networking opportunities is vital. Many women lack knowledge about where to sell their products. Connecting them to urban markets, such as green product outlets in Dhaka, can enhance their visibility and profitability. Nazim Hossain Sattar, General Manager, SME Foundation In recent years, green compliance and climate resilience have gained significant traction within Bangladesh's SME sector. As the leading SME development agency, the SME Foundation actively supports women entrepreneurs, who frequently employ other women, thereby fostering wider female workforce participation. Recognising the impact of climate challenges, the foundation has introduced tailored packages for climate-vulnerable and green-focused women entrepreneurs. However, a significant gap remains in awareness, particularly among rural women-led SMEs. To address this, the foundation is organising workshops, video campaigns, and roadshows, while also establishing model green SMEs in regions such as Khulna, Cox's Bazar, and Rangpur to inspire others. The foundation is also developing green compliance guidelines and a platform to connect existing green SMEs with aspirants for collaboration and knowledge-sharing. It has initiated referral and consultation reporting to bridge rural-urban gaps, with results from ongoing applications expected soon. Lastly, fostering green finance will require collective stakeholder efforts, with a focus on promoting "associations" over cooperatives for securing loans. M Zakir Hossain Khan , Chief Executive, Change Initiative The green microfinancing and microcredit initiative targeting vulnerable women is more than a transformative programme—it is a tool for empowerment. Women impacted by natural or man-made disasters, often trapped in cycles of debt, will benefit significantly from this initiative. We also need to prioritise the adoption of innovative technologies, such as apps to streamline supply chains, and alternative energy solutions like rooftop solar systems. Md. Ruhul Amin, Chief Executive Officer, Countree Agro Our work in agribusiness engages producers from char regions and climate-affected coastal areas. Projects are being implemented across six upazilas in three districts, focusing on promoting green products and creating a rural-urban continuum. We encourage supermarkets and food processing companies to actively address the needs of climate-vulnerable areas. Beyond traditional gender distinctions, we aim to foster a more structured and inclusive development model within SMEs. Syed Muntasir Ridwan , Co-Executive Director, Bangladesh Youth Environmental Initiative (BYEI) While discussing green initiatives, it is vital to consider ecological factors. For instance, coconuts, which grow naturally in certain regions, are inherently climate-resilient. Establishing a corresponding value chain can enhance climate resilience and efficiency. Youth can contribute by participating in cooperative networks that drive positive change. For primary producers, the existing market structure often complicates pricing negotiations. Organised supply chains, buyer identification, and buy-back guarantees are essential to overcome these challenges. Dr. Maliha Muzammil, Climate Change Specialist, Resilience and Inclusive Growth (RIG) Cluster, UNDP Bangladesh Three years ago, a study conducted with Kingston University London and IID Dhaka revealed that single-women-headed households in vulnerable areas bear three times the expenses of double-income households. This finding highlights how empowering women can directly benefit families and underscores the urgent need to prioritise innovative private financing solutions. Currently, UNDP Bangladesh is collaborating with the SME Foundation, Bangladesh Bank, and BSEC to identify financing bottlenecks for climate-resilient cooperatives and develop a blended finance facility for green SMEs in vulnerable areas. In collaboration with Bangladesh Bank, we are utilising LoGIC's climate vulnerability index (CVI) to rank unions across the country. Bangladesh Bank is also assisting in the development of a climate damage function, which will be based on micro-level data from this CVI. This function will help quantify the social and financial impacts of the climate crisis. Strengthening linkages from local to national levels is crucial for effective impact monitoring, expanding private sector financing, and ensuring thematic bond proceeds reach the most vulnerable. Sonali Dayaratne , Deputy Resident Representative, UNDP Bangladesh Having spent 15 months in Bangladesh, I am deeply inspired by the resilience and creativity of its people. Grassroots implementation has been both humbling and enlightening. Despite enduring over five disasters this year, which affected 18 million people, Bangladesh remains a global leader in climate resilience. Efforts in agriculture and vulnerable communities deserve global recognition for driving meaningful change. UNDP, in partnership with Bangladesh Bank, the SME Foundation, and development agencies from Sweden and Denmark, is focused on scaling initiatives for wider impact. While pilot projects offer valuable insights, the true challenge lies in replicating transformational change across communities. To achieve this, financing and governance models must shift towards people-centred solutions, emphasising demand-driven approaches over supply-driven ones. Inclusion is crucial, especially for women-headed households and youth networks. Achieving sustainability in financing, service delivery, and market alignment is vital for success. To scale up initiatives like LoGIC and ensure long-term impact, collaborative efforts, innovative financing models, and public-private partnerships are essential. Tanjim Ferdous, In-Charge, NGOs & Foreign Missions, Business Development Section, The Daily Star The Local Government Initiative on Climate Change (LoGIC) project has demonstrated the potential of community-owned green enterprises to drive localised solutions. However, critical gaps remain in defining these enterprises, establishing supportive policies, and ensuring sustainable financing mechanisms. Recommendations Encourage the adoption of cooperatives as an effective model to empower vulnerable communities, strengthen climate resilience, and enable women to lead adaptive green business initiatives. Select climate-resilient, smart enterprises with short production cycles that utilise local raw materials and cater to strong local demand. Introduce insurance schemes tailored for climate-vulnerable cooperative members, particularly women. Encourage youth participation in cooperatives to build capacity and strengthen market connections. Strengthen market linkages by establishing connections between cooperatives and Upazila-level associations. Facilitate networking opportunities for women entrepreneurs by connecting them to urban markets, while promoting a gender-neutral market system to ensure equal access and opportunities for their success. Prioritise collaborative efforts, innovative financing, and public-private partnerships to scale up programmes like LoGIC. Establish organised supply chains, identify reliable buyers, and implement buy-back guarantees to support SMEs. Promote innovative technologies and alternative energy solutions to streamline supply chains and ensure uninterrupted production.Mariah Carey's holiday concert at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh was cancelled on Wednesday, hours before the show's scheduled start time. The venue's website said that fans will be able to get ticket refunds. The multi-time Grammy Award winner in a brief statement said she had contracted the flu. "Pittsburgh, I am sorry to say, I've come down with the flu. It breaks my heart that I unfortunately have to cancel tonight's show. I love you all so much," Carey informed her fans on social media. Read More: Luigi Mangione's Alleged Tinder And OnlyFans Profiles, TikTok Videos Surface "Tonight's show with Mariah Carey has been cancelled. Fans will receive an email with refund options. If you do not receive an email, please contact your point of purchase," the venue said. For those who bought through Ticketmaster, refunds will be processed automatically. For tickets purchased at the PPG Paints Arena box office or through other vendors, fans may need to follow specific instructions provided by the seller. Read More: From TikTok Fame To Crypto Flop: Mapping Hawk Tuah Girl Hailey Welch's Journey Mariah Carey’s 2024 schedule Mariah Carey’s 2024 schedule includes her ongoing 'Celebration of Mimi Live' residency at Dolby Live, Park MGM in Las Vegas, which has been extended through February 15, 2025. Following this, she will embark on her highly anticipated "Christmas Time Tour," celebrating the 30th anniversary of her Merry Christmas album. The tour begins November 6 in Highland, California, and concludes December 17 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, covering 20 cities, including Los Angeles, Houston, Nashville, and Washington, D.C. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from US Buzz, World and around the world.

Conor McGregor must pay $250K to woman who says he raped her, civil jury rules

I just spent a week in Beijing and Shanghai, meeting with Chinese officials, economists and entrepreneurs, and let me get right to the point: While we were sleeping China took a great leap forward in high-tech manufacturing of everything. If no one has told Donald Trump, then I will: His nickname on Chinese social media today is “Chuan Jianguo” — meaning “Trump the (Chinese) Nation Builder” — because of how his relentless China bashing and tariffs during his first term as president lit a fire under Beijing to double down on its efforts to gain global supremacy in electric cars, robots and rare materials, and to become as independent of America’s markets and tools as possible. “China had its Sputnik moment — his name was Donald Trump,” Jim McGregor, a business consultant who lived in China for 30 years, told me. “He woke them up to the fact that they needed an all-hands-on-deck effort to take their indigenous scientific, innovative and advanced manufacturing skills to a new level.” The China that Trump will encounter is a much more formidable export engine. Its advanced manufacturing muscles have exploded in size, sophistication and quantity in the last eight years, even while consumption by its people remains puny. If I were drawing a picture of China’s economy today as a person, it would have an awesome manufacturing upper body — like Popeye, still eating spinach — with consuming legs resembling thin little sticks. China’s export machine is so strong now that only very high tariffs might really slow it down, and China’s response to very high tariffs could be to start cutting off American industries from crucial supplies that are now available almost nowhere else. That kind of supply-chain warfare is not what anyone, anywhere needs. The Chinese experts I spoke with during my trip two weeks ago would like to avoid that battle. The Chinese still need the U.S. market for their exports. But they will not be pushovers. Both Beijing and Washington will be much better off with a bargain — one that imposes a gradual increase in U.S. tariffs, while both of us do what we needed to do long ago. What is that? I call it the “Elon Musk-Taylor Swift paradigm.” America would use higher tariffs on China to buy time to lift up more Elon Musks — more homegrown manufacturers who can make big stuff so we can export more to the world and import less. And China would use the time to let in more Taylor Swifts — more opportunities for its youth to spend money on entertainment and consumer goods made abroad, but also to make more goods and offer more services — particularly in health care — that its own people want to buy. But if we don’t use this time to respond to China the way we did to the Soviet Union’s 1957 launch of Sputnik, the world’s first artificial satellite, with our own comprehensive scientific, innovative and industrial push, we will be toast. You have to go to China to see it, but because a U.S. congressional delegation, led by Sen. Chuck Schumer in October 2023, was the first official visit by U.S. lawmakers since 2019 — and because many U.S. companies that moved their American staffs out of China for COVID never returned them — a lot of people in Washington have missed the country’s staggering manufacturing growth. Here’s what Noah Smith, who writes about manufacturing, posted the other day, using data from the United Nations Industrial Development Organization: In 2000, “the United States and its allies in Asia, Europe and Latin America accounted for the overwhelming majority of global industrial production, with China at just 6% even after two decades of rapid growth.” By 2030, Smith wrote, the U.N. agency predicts “China will account for 45% of all global manufacturing, single-handedly matching or outmatching the U.S. and all of its allies. “This is a level of manufacturing dominance by a single country seen only twice before in world history — by the U.K. at the start of the Industrial Revolution, and by the U.S. just after World War II,” Smith wrote. “It means that in an extended war of production, there is no guarantee that the entire world united could defeat China alone.” Let me offer a few examples of the scale of what we’re talking about: In 2019, as Trump was finishing his last term, net lending by Chinese banks to domestic industries was $83 billion. Last year it swelled to $670 billion, according to the People’s Bank of China. That is not a typo. When I visited China in 2019, before COVID, Xiaomi and Huawei were only Chinese smartphone companies. When I returned a few weeks ago, both were now also electric car companies — each leveraging its battery technologies to make really cool electric cars. Xiaomi’s SU7, which is manufactured in a formerly abandoned plant that used to make gasoline-fueled cars — was the talk of the Beijing car show last April. Meanwhile, BYD, the famed Chinese battery company, which already had a car-making subsidiary, doubled down on automobiles. I rode all over Shanghai in super-comfortable BYD electric cars operated by Didi, China’s Uber. BYD now offers a subcompact EV, the Seagull, that starts at less than $10,000. In an effort to export its large inventory of cars, China has begun construction of a fleet of 170 ships capable of carrying several thousand automobiles at a time across the ocean. Before the pandemic, the world’s shipyards were delivering only four such vessels a year. That is also not a typo. Because China has essentially a national electric grid, it has installed charging stations all over the country, which is why more than half of new car sales in China are of EVs. Apple talked for 15 years about making an electric car. Has anyone driven an Apple car? I took the bullet train from Beijing to Shanghai. The trip is roughly the distance between New York City and Chicago. Only it takes just 4.5 hours because the train goes over 200 mph and there’s almost 100 of them going back and forth each day. The ride is so smooth, if you put a dime on the ledge next to your window — half on the ledge and half off — it will be there exactly as you left it from the beginning of the trip to the end. Try that on the Acela between New York City and Washington and the dime will be on the floor seconds after the train starts wobbling out of the station. In case you missed the story, while I was in Beijing, General Motors took a write-down of more than $5 billion on the value of its once cutting-edge factory that at one time was a major player in the Chinese car market. Sales at GM’s China joint venture, SAIC-GM, “slumped 59% in the first 11 months of this year, to 370,989 units, while local new-energy vehicle champion BYD sold more than 10 times that number in the same period,” Reuters reported. But don’t worry, folks, help is on the way. Trump has vowed to make America great again by doubling down on drill-baby-drill gas guzzlers and ending U.S. government subsidies for Americans who purchase electric cars. So, what do you think is going to happen? The rest of the world will gradually transition to Chinese-made self-driving EVs, “and America will become the new Cuba — the place where you visit to see old gas-guzzling cars that you drive yourself,” as Keith Bradsher, the New York Times Beijing bureau chief and an auto industry specialist, said. If that happens, one day we’ll wake up and China will own the global electric vehicle market. And since fully autonomous driving technology only really works with EVs, that means China will own the future self-driving-cars market —as well. Here’s another way the China that Trump will face in 2025 looks a lot different from his last go-round. If Trump were even to tell China, “Hey, I’ll let you off the hook on tariffs, if you build more factories in America,” that would definitely help reduce our trade deficit with Beijing, but it might not be such a vote-getter for Republicans. Because here is what China would say: “Sure, how many factories would you like? Forty? Fifty? But there’s one thing. The assembly lines will all be staffed by robots, and we can even operate them remotely.” I learned a new term on this visit: “dark factory.” A retired Chinese official mentioned to me in passing over dinner that she wanted to buy a new high-tech bed and decided to go see the offerings at the factory. When she arrived, though, she found it was a “dark factory” — so the lights were turned on just for her. It wasn’t dark because it was out of business, she told me. It was dark because it was so fully roboticized that the company doesn’t waste electricity keeping the lights on for any humans — except for the engineers who come to clean or adjust the machines once a day. As an article in the state-run China Daily explained: “From steel plates and mobile phones to household motors and rocket ignition device parts, more business lines in China are using artificial intelligence to power their production and have introduced ‘dark factories’ with their 24-hour uninterrupted and unattended production capabilities. Dark factories, also called smart factories, are entirely run by programmed robots with no need for lighting.” You remember the old joke? “The modern factory will be just a man and a dog. The dog will be there to keep the man from touching the machines and the man will be there to feed the dog.” That is not a joke in China. More Americans might get a better feel for what is going on there if they simply went and ordered room service at their hotel. I love this account from a German travel vlogger from his Shanghai hotel experience, recounted recently by Global Times: “‘OK, so the phone is ringing. That means the robot is here,’ he said at the beginning of the video. When he opened the door, he saw a robot standing there waiting for him. When he pressed the ‘open’ button on the machine, the lid on the top opened to reveal the food he had ordered inside. He took out the package and hit ‘finished’ to close the compartment and watched the robot return to the elevator.” No tip required. But there is another reason for China’s headlong rush to robotization: demographic necessity. In America, strong trade unions and a growing population make robots the natural enemy of working people, because of how they supplant blue-collar labor. China’s population collapse and its heavy restrictions on trade unions make introducing more and more robots to factory floors both economically essential and politically easier (but China, too, will most likely face a backlash from its blue-collar workers). In the last seven years alone, the number of babies born in China fell from 18 million to 9 million. The latest projection is that China’s current population of 1.4 billion will decline by 100 million by 2050 and possibly by 700 million by the end of the century. To preserve its own standard of living and be able to take care of all its old people, with a steadily shrinking working population, China will drive the robotization of everything for itself — and the rest of the world. In his first term, Trump — and Joe Biden, too — was right to impose tariffs on China as long as it didn’t give us reciprocal access. China has consistently violated World Trade Organization trade rules to avoid giving reciprocal access to its major trading partners, and it has greatly subsidized its companies. I have complained about this for years. China has historically bought $1 from America for every $4 America bought from China; much of that is soybeans and other agricultural products. But here’s what’s scary: We no longer make that many things China wants to buy. It can do almost everything at least cheaper and often better. Eric Chen is the founder of Kingwills, a Chinese materials science company that competes with, among others, DuPont. He explained to me that what young Chinese entrepreneurs like himself learned from the Chinese internet giants like Tencent, ByteDance and Alibaba was “rapid innovation and improvement.” His foreign competitors, said Chen, upgrade their products much more slowly and, when they do, can take five or six years to build a new factory. “We upgrade some products every 30 days. We can produce a new production line in six months. We learned from Elon Musk and Steve Jobs. You are really good” at taking products “from zero to 1. We are good at going from 2 to 100.” This is possible because the steady buildup of manufacturing capacity in China means that virtually anything you need today — from a tiny part to a rare earth chemical — can be sourced domestically. No other country in the world has such a complete homegrown ecosystem, Chen explained, so any idea you come up with, “you can do all the sourcing from here. We have a three-year target to have zero labor for production and storage using a combination of robots and AI.” Then “we can sit in China and control production outside of China. Then we can put factories closer to the customer.” He added one warning, though: “Probably in the future the competition for the U.S. is not China, but AI. It is coming for both of us.” Foreign business executives operating in China will tell you that you used to have to be there to have access to its giant market of consumers. You still have to be there, they say, but today it’s also in order to have access to China’s expanding market of innovators. Get ready for more “designed in China,” not just “made in China.” We fool ourselves if we believe that China’s growing strength in advanced manufacturing is only from unfair trade practices. It is also because it has lots and lots of people still burning to work, as they say, “9-9-6” — that is 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. 6 days a week to make a better life, and because Beijing has invested in world-class infrastructure, and because it deliberately suppresses consumer spending and because it has a seemingly endless supply of students majoring in engineering — and not so many in sports management, sociology and gender studies. “The Chinese treat education like we treat sports,” said Han Shen Lin, who teaches at NYU Shanghai. *** So, China’s going to bury us? That is not at all inevitable. I left as impressed with China’s weaknesses as much as with its strengths. I don’t want to see instability in China. It’s important to the world that China continues to be able to give its 1.4 billion people a better life — but it cannot be at the expense of everyone else. And it is clear to me from being there that, in the relative absence of foreign visitors, a lot of Chinese have grown out of touch with how China is perceived in the world. As a senior White House official said to me, China “freaked out” the rest of the world when it began its “Made in China 2025” agenda — a state-led and -funded industrial policy that aimed to make China the dominant producer in every aspect of advanced manufacturing, from aerospace to material science to machine tools. And it’s not only freaking out more developed manufacturers, like the United States and Germany, but also developing countries such as Brazil, the Philippines and Indonesia, as they see China dominating overseas and yet still constricting its domestic consumption. China has billions and billions of dollars in domestic savings that could stimulate its economy, but people will spend those savings only if they have confidence in their government and faith in the future. But the government’s bad performance at the end of COVID shook that confidence, and the lack of transparency about China’s future direction has kept savers cautious. Related Articles Their reluctance to spend is compounded by youth unemployment stuck over 17%, as well as by seeing some cities so starved for cash that raiding parties of tax collectors are sent to track down tax evaders in other provinces. In addition, the persistent housing crisis, born of immense overbuilding, has left many Chinese feeling house-poor. It also doesn’t help confidence to read that China’s third consecutive serving or former defense minister is being investigated for alleged corruption in the People’s Liberation Army. Most important, the government’s prioritizing of Communist Party ideology and state-owned industries is driving some of China’s most talented private-sector innovators to quietly move their money, families or themselves to Japan, the United Arab Emirates and Singapore. That is not a good trend for China. My free advice to my friends in China is that an economy this unbalanced is not sustainable. It will eventually generate a global trade alliance against them. The world will not let China make everything and only import soybeans and potatoes. China needs more nurses to provide good health care at home — and fewer engineers to design more cars for abroad. Its youth need more outlets for creative expression — without having to worry that a song lyric they write could land them in prison. I talked to too many people who feel choked or don’t dare speak their minds. They see the crackdown in Hong Kong. It was not like this 15 years ago. There is a reason so many educated young Chinese now yearn to go abroad. As for my neighbors in America, I have a confession. I caught a virus in China that I never imagined I’d get: “Elon Musk appreciation.” I’d become so disgusted with the way Musk had been using his X megaphone to bully defenseless people and fawn over Trump that I just wanted that Elon Musk to shut up and go away. But there is another Elon Musk. The genius engineer-entrepreneur who can make stuff, big stuff — electric cars, reusable rockets and satellite internet systems — as well as anyone in China can, and often better. Musk at his best is the one American manufacturer the Chinese fear and respect. It is crazy to me that Trump is wasting Musk on the project of shrinking the U.S. bureaucracy — under the acronym DOGE, for the informal “Department of Government Efficiency” — when he should be leading another DOGE, a government office for enabling more Americans to “Do Good Engineering.” In sum, America needs to tighten up, but China needs to loosen up. Which is why my hat is off to Secretary of State Antony Blinken for showing China the way forward. On April 26, as Blinken was en route to the airport after a visit that included a meeting with China’s president, Xi Jinping, Reuters reported, he popped into the LiPi record store in the Chinese capital’s arts district. Blinken bought two records — one was an album by classic Chinese rocker Dou Wei. The other was Taylor Swift’s 2022 record “Midnights.” Swift’s “Lover” album in 2019 had more than 1 million combined streams, downloads and sales in China within a week of its release — a record for an international artist, the Reuters story noted. The demand from Chinese consumers is there. I’d say it’s time for China’s leaders to let their people have more of the supply. It would be good for both our countries. Thomas Friedman writes a column for the New York Times.

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Maryland U.S. Rep. James Raskin, who represents Maryland’s 8th District, officially launched his campaign to be the next ranking member of the House Judiciary Committee in the 119th Congress. In a letter released on Dec. 2, the Democrat expressed concern over the future of the country in the face of a GOP-controlled Congress and White House, calling next year’s political scene the “fight of our lives.” This time the MAGA movement has not only a trifecta but a complicit Supreme Court waiting in the wings and a dominant media propaganda system parroting all the lies,” he wrote. “House Democrats must stand in the breach to defend the principles and institutions of constitutional democracy.” Congressman Raskin urged his colleagues to “strategize and organize like never before” until Democrats “win the House back in 2026,” he predicted. With Republican’s thin 220-215 majority in the House, the Democrat said lawmakers need to advance legislation that will prevent a “further descent into MAGA chaos.” “This is where we will wage our front-line defense of the freedoms and rights of the people, the integrity of the Department of Justice and the FBI, and the security of our most precious birthright possession: the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, the rule of law, and democracy itself,” he wrote. Throughout his career in politics, Congressman Raskin has leveraged his experience as a professor of constitutional law and the First Amendment for over 25 years, and his decades-long work at the Maryland State Senate, where he served as Majority Whip. During his time at the Maryland General Assembly, Congressman Raskin advocated for marriage equality, abolition of the death penalty, restoration of voting rights for former prisoners, and the passage of the National Popular Vote interstate compact. Congressman Raskin has been a member of the House Judiciary Committee since he joined Congress in 2017, and was heavily involved in the legislative aftermath of Jan. 6. Together with Congressmen Ted Lieu and Joe Neguse, Raskin successfully drafted an Article of Impeachment against president-elect Donald Trump. In the 119th Congress, the Judiciary Committee will be the headquarters of Congressional opposition to authoritarianism and MAGA’s campaign to dismantle our Constitutional system and the rule of law as we know it,” the Congressman Raskin wrote in his ‘dear colleague’ letter. “I hope to be at the center of this fight and — as someone who has battled cancer and chemotherapy — I can tell you that I will never surrender, never surrender.” The Democrat concluded the letter expressing respect and “boundless admiration” for his opponent and current Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee, Rep. Jerry Nadler. In response to the news on social media, political pundits were quick to weigh in. John Dedie, a political science professor at the Community College of Baltimore County, predicted Congressman Raskin would earn enough support to be selected as ranking member. “Dems want a guy who can do the theatre of TV for all the public hearings and is sharp with sound bites,” Dedie wrote on X, previously known as Twitter. “Rep. Raskin is that guy.” Have a news tip? Contact Lori Rampani at lrampani@sbgtv.com.

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( MENAFN - EIN Presswire) Small Arms and Light Weapons Global market Report 2024 - Market Size, Trends, And Global Forecast 2024-2033 The Business Research Company's Early Year-End Sale! Get up to 30% off detailed market research reports-for a limited time only! LONDON, GREATER LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM, December 19, 2024 /EINPresswire / -- The Business Research Company's Early Year-End Sale! Get up to 30% off detailed market research reports-limited time only! The small arms and light weapons market has seen prominent growth in recent years and is expected to continue on this upward trajectory. The market is set to grow from $13.09 billion in 2023 to $14.01 billion in 2024, resulting in a compound annual growth rate CAGR of 7.0%. This growth momentum is chiefly attributable to a rise in disposable income, emerging market growth, an increase in urban warfare, domestic violence, military expenditure, and the prevalence of drug trafficking and terrorist activities. What is the expected market size and growth of the small arms and light weapons over the next few years? The small arms and light weapons market is anticipated to witness steady growth in the foreseeable future, expanding to $17 billion in 2028 at a CAGR of 5.0%. The growth in the forecast period can be credited to an uptick in defense spending and military modernization programs. For insights into the global small arms and light weapons market, request a sample report: What is the key driver for the growth of the small arms and light weapons market? Increased defense spending globally is expected to fuel the growth of the small arms and light weapons market over the forecast period. With ongoing conflicts and rivalries, countries around the world are pumping more money into their defense sectors. The seventh consecutive increase in global military spending was recorded in 2021, where total expenditure edged up to $2113 billion in real terms, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute SIPRI. To pre-book the full report, follow this link: Which key industry players are driving the growth of the small arms and light weapons market? Major companies propelling the market include Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc, Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc, General Dynamics Corporation, SIG Sauer, Inc, Heckler & Koch GmbH, FN Herstal S.A., Colt's Manufacturing Company LLC, Raytheon, Thales Group, GLOCK Ges.H., and many others. Presently, the advent of polymers to make light weapons and ammunitions, design upgrades and modularity for military-style weapons, the use of 3D printing technology for producing small arms, and other similar trends are attracting a lot of market interest. How is the small arms and light weapons market segmented? The market segments under consideration in this report are categorized into: - By Type: Small Arms And Light Weapons - By Action: Manual, Semi-Automatic, Automatic - By Caliber: 14.5 mm, 9 mm, 12.7 mm, 5.56 mm, 14.5 mm, 7.62 mm - By Firing Systems: Gas-Operated, Manual, Recoil Operated - By End-User Sector: Law Enforcement, Military & Defense, Civil & Commercial How is the small arms and light weapons market distributed regionally? In 2023, Asia-Pacific emerged as the dominant region in the small arms and weapons market. Western Europe, on the other hand, is projected to experience the fastest growth in the global small arms and light weapons market during the forecast period. The regions taken into account in this report include Asia-Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, North America, South America, the Middle East, and Africa. Browse Through More Similar Reports By The Business Research Company: Land based Defense Equipment Global Market Report 2024 Smart Weapons Global Market Report 2024 Light Weapons Global Market Report 2024 About The Business Research Company Learn More About The Business Research Company. With over 15000+ reports from 27 industries covering 60+ geographies, The Business Research Company has built a reputation for offering comprehensive, data-rich research and insights. Armed with 1,500,000 datasets, the optimistic contribution of in-depth secondary research, and unique insights from industry leaders, you can get the information you need to stay ahead in the game. Contact us at The Business Research Company: Americas +1 3156230293 Asia +44 2071930708 Europe +44 2071930708 Email us at ... 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Retail sales in Qatar projected to grow at an annualised rate of 2.2% up to 2028, according to researcher Alpen Capital. Main drivers are government’s ambitious strategy to make Qatar a tourist destination, growing population and rising income levels, Alpen Capital said in a recent report. The government's efforts are anchored around three pillars, which are business facilitation, family-oriented activities and enhancing cultural experiences, it said. The country is actively leveraging its modern infrastructure to enhance the MICE market while also establishing new leisure destinations and districts, launching luxury shopping centres and investing in its natural assets. Qatar is also likely to benefit from the long-list of global sporting events lined up to take place in the country during the forecasted period. Qatar’s retail industry is currently going through a period of rapid expansion with several regional and international brands expanding their presence across the country. This has led to increased footfall in markets such as Doha and the market is expected to witness significant traction as Qatar gears up to host numerous global sporting events. As part of Qatar National Vision 2030, the government is working to diversify the country's economy with the travel and retail sectors being recognised as two of the main drivers, Alpen Capital noted. The high level of wealth coupled with rising population (1.5% CAGR between 2018 and 2023), an expanding tourism sector (74.1% CAGR between 2020 and 2023), and continued investments towards infrastructure development has thus positioned the country as a promising retail market in the GCC. Consequently, the retail sector is undergoing transformation from traditional independent shops and souqs to modern shopping malls, supermarkets, and digital platforms that feature a wide range of domestic and international brands. “This transition not only offers a broader variety of products but also enhances shopping experiences, attracting a diverse consumer base,” the report said. Amid a rising demand for global brands, sales across e-commerce platforms in Qatar is estimated to have grown at a CAGR of 8.1% between 2018 and 2023 to reach $2.8bn in 2023. The sector’s contribution to GDP stood at 1.2% as of 2023, second highest in the region and above the GCC average of 1%, Alpen Capital said. This has been primarily driven by the government’s NDS-3 (2024-2030), a commitment to diversification and sustainability for future prosperity. In order to facilitate growth within the sector, the country has been leveraging customs programmes and trade agreements, investing in strong ICT infrastructure and advanced technologies, as well as using PPP models to bolster its logistics and industrial infrastructure. Although it accounted for just 13.2% of the total GCC e-commerce market as of 2023, the industry is witnessing an influx of platforms offering niche products and services. Post-pandemic, several retailers in Qatar have moved to a blended, omni-channel distribution strategy, which involves boosting and expanding their digital offerings while also maintaining a brick-and-mortar footprint. Qatar is also regarded as the world’s fastest-growing luxury market that encompasses a diverse range of goods, spanning from high-end fashion attire, accessories, timepieces, jewellery, cosmetics, fragrances, and high-end vehicles among others. Qatari luxury goods market is also in the midst of a digital transformation, as brands are adopting e-commerce platforms, utilising social media for marketing, and employing digital engagement tactics to connect with millennial and tech-savvy affluent consumers. As of 2023, Qatar’s supply of organised retail space exceeded 2.3mn sq m of gross leasable area (GLA). Supply in the organised retail real estate sector in the country has remained largely static in 2023, Alpen Capital said. Related Story Qatar's venture capital ecosystem outlook 'positive': Pulsar Qatar’s food consumption may grow to 2.5mn tonnes by 2027: Alpen Capital

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The mystery surrounding at least one of the unexplained drones causing Americans to look toward the night sky in recent days was solved late Saturday evening, when Boston police arrested two men for allegedly flying their unmanned aerial device too close to Logan Airport. According to police, 42-year-old Robert Duffy of Charlestown and 32-year-old Jeremy Folcik of Bridgewater were arrested Saturday on Long Island, after officials noticed the drone on their monitoring systems. “The incident began earlier that evening, at 4:30 p.m., when a Boston Police Officer specializing in real-time crime surveillance detected an Unmanned Aircraft System operating dangerously close to Logan International Airport. Leveraging advanced UAS monitoring technology, the Officer identified the drone’s location, altitude, flight history, and the operators’ position on Long Island,” the Boston Police Department said in a Sunday statement. After rallying officials from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Massachusetts State Police, the Joint Terrorism Task Force, the Federal Communications Commission, and Logan Airport Air Traffic Control, the Boston Police Harbor Patrol Unit was dispatched to the Boston Harbor Islands, where they allegedly found Duffy and Folcik, along with another man on the closed Long Island Health campus. All three attempted to flee on foot, according to police, but the arrested pair were caught and a drone found in their possession. The third man, according to police, is “believed to have fled the island in a small vessel.” Police say that all three were engaging in seriously dangerous behavior. “Operators are prohibited from flying drones over people or vehicles and must be aware of airspace restrictions. Even small drones pose significant risks, including the potential for catastrophic damage to airplanes and helicopters. Near-collisions can cause pilots to veer off course, putting lives and property at risk,” they said. Both Duffy and Folcik will appear in Dorchester District Court on charges of trespassing, police said. This is a developing story and it will be updated.Intel Announces Major Free Processor Performance Updates: Get Them NowFormer Tulane quarterback Darian Mensah has already found a new program in Duke, while Mississippi State's Michael Van Buren Jr., Wisconsin's Braedyn Locke and Cal's Fernando Mendoza are exploring changes of their own in the transfer portal. Mensah, a redshirt freshman with three years of eligibility remaining, told ESPN on Wednesday he has transferred to Duke. He attended the Blue Devils men's basketball game against Incarnate Word on Tuesday night. The Blue Devils (9-3) will face Mississippi in the Gator Bowl, but without 2024 starting quarterback Maalik Murphy and backup Grayson Loftis, who also entered the portal. Mensah, viewed as one of the top players in the portal, threw for 2,723 yards and 22 touchdowns and completed 65.9% of his passes. He led the Green Wave to a 9-4 record and the American Athletic Conference championship game, where they lost 35-14 to Army. Tulane will play Florida in the Gasparilla Bowl on Sunday. Van Buren, Mendoza and Locke announced on social media they had entered the portal. Van Buren started eight games as a true freshmen for the Bulldogs. He threw for 1,886 yards on 55% passing with 16 total touchdowns and seven interceptions for the Bulldogs (2-10, 0-8 Southeastern Conference). He took over as the starter when Blake Shapen suffered a season-ending shoulder injury in a 45-28 loss to Florida on Sept. 21. Shapen has said he plans to return next season. Van Buren, a 6-foot-1, 200-pound passer from St. Frances Academy in Maryland, had two 300-yard performances for the Bulldogs, including 306 yards and three touchdown passes in a 41-31 road loss against Georgia. Mendoza threw for 3,004 yards in 2024 with 16 TDs, six interceptions and a 68.7 completion percentage. "For the sake of my football future this is the decision I have reached," he posted. Locke passed for 1,936 yards with 13 touchdowns and 10 interceptions for Wisconsin this season. He said he will have two years of eligibility remaining at his next school. ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Michigan cornerback Will Johnson has joined defensive tackle Mason Graham in the NFL draft. Johnson declared for the draft on Wednesday, one day after Graham decided he would also skip his senior season with the Wolverines. Both preseason All-America players are expected to be first-round picks. Johnson was limited to six games this year due to an injury. He had two interceptions, returning them both for touchdowns to set a school record with three scores off interceptions. Johnson picked off nine passes in three seasons. Graham played in all 12 games this season, finishing with 3 1/2 sacks and seven tackles for losses. He had 18 tackles for losses, including nine sacks, in his three-year career. Tennessee running back Dylan Sampson is The Associated Press offensive player of the year in the Southeastern Conference and South Carolina defensive lineman Kyle Kennard is the top defensive player. Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia was voted the top newcomer on Wednesday while the Gamecocks' Shane Beamer is coach of the year in voting by the panel of 17 media members who cover the league. Sampson led the SEC and set school records by rushing for 1,485 yards and 22 touchdowns. He is tied for third nationally in rushing touchdowns, recording the league's fifth-most in a season. Sampson was chosen on all but two ballots. Mississippi wide receiver Tre Harris and his quarterback, Jaxson Dart, each got a vote. Kennard led the SEC with 11-1/2 sacks and 15-1/2 tackles for loss. He also had 10 quarterback hurries and forced three fumbles. Beamer led the Gamecocks to just their fifth nine-win season, including a school-record four wins over Top 25 opponents. They've won their last six games and ended the regular season with a win over eventual ACC champion Clemson. South Carolina plays Illinois on Dec. 31 in the Citrus Bowl. Pavia helped lead Vandy to its first bowl game since 2018 after transferring from New Mexico State. He passed for 2,133 yards and 17 touchdowns with four interceptions. He ran for another 716 yards and six touchdowns, directing an upset of Alabama. AMES, Iowa — Matt Campbell, who led Iowa State to its first 10-win season and became the program's all-time leader in coaching victories, has agreed to an eight-year contract that would keep him with the Cyclones through 2032. University president Wendy Wintersteen and athletic director Jamie Pollard made the announcement Wednesday, four days after the Cyclones lost to Arizona State in the Big 12 championship game. “Given all the uncertainty currently facing college athletics, it was critical that we moved quickly to solidify the future of our football program,” Pollard said. “Matt is the perfect fit for Iowa State University and I am thrilled he wants to continue to lead our program. Leadership continuity is essential to any organization’s long-term success." The Cyclones won their first seven games for their best start since 1938 and are 10-3 heading into their game against Miami in the Pop Tarts Bowl in Orlando, Florida, on Dec. 28. BRIEFLY FLAG PLANT: Ohio Republican state Rep. Josh Williams said Wednesday on social media he's introducing a bill to make flag planting in sports a felony in the state. His proposal comes after the Nov. 30 fight at the Michigan-Ohio State rivalry football game when the Wolverines beat the Buckeyes 13-10 and then attempted to plant their flag at midfield. MALZAHN: Gus Malzahn, who resigned as UCF’s coach last month to become Mike Norvell’s offensive coordinator at Florida State, said he chose to return to his coaching roots rather than remain a head coach distracted by a myriad of responsibilities. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox!

Powell: Fed's independence from politics is vital to its interest rate decisions WASHINGTON (AP) — Chair Jerome Powell said the Federal Reserve’s ability to set interest rates free of political interference is necessary for it to make decisions to serve “all Americans” rather than a political party or political outcome. Speaking at the New York Times’ DealBook summit, Powell addressed a question about President-elect Donald Trump’s numerous public criticisms of the Fed and of Powell himself. During the election campaign, Trump had insisted that as president, he should have a “say” in the Fed’s interest rate policies. Despite Trump’s comments, the Fed chair said he was confident of widespread support in Congress for maintaining the central bank’s independence. UnitedHealthcare CEO kept a low public profile. Then he was shot to death in New York NEW YORK (AP) — Brian Thompson led one of the biggest health insurers in the US but was unknown to millions of people his decisions affected. The fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare's chief executive on a midtown Manhattan sidewalk Wednesday became a mystery that riveted the nation. Police say it was a targeted killing. Thompson was 50. He had worked at the company for 20 years and had run health care giant UnitedHealth Group Inc.'s insurance business since 2021. It provides health coverage for more than 49 million Americans and brought in $281 billion in revenue last year. Thompson's $10.2 million annual compensation made him one of the company’s highest-paid executives. Trump nominates cryptocurrency advocate Paul Atkins as SEC chair President-elect Donald Trump says he intends to nominate cryptocurrency advocate Paul Atkins to chair the Securities and Exchange Commission. Atkins is the CEO of Patomak Partners and a former SEC commissioner. Trump calls Atkins a “proven leader for common sense regulations.” In the years since leaving the SEC, Atkins has made the case against too much market regulation. The SEC oversees U.S. securities markets and investments. If confirmed next year by the new Republican-led Senate, Atkins would replace Gary Gensler, who's been leading the U.S. government’s crackdown on the crypto industry. Atkins was widely considered the most conservative SEC member during his tenure and known to have a strong free-market bent. Australia is banning social media for people under 16. Could this work elsewhere — or even there? It is an ambitious social experiment of our moment in history. Experts say it could accomplish something that parents, schools and other governments have attempted with varying degrees of success — keeping kids off social media until they turn 16. Australia’s new law was approved by its Parliament last week. It's an attempt to swim against many tides of modern life — formidable forces like technology, marketing, globalization and, of course, the iron will of a teenager. The ban won’t go into effect for another year. But how will Australia be able to enforce it? That’s not clear, nor will it be easy. White House says at least 8 US telecom firms, dozens of nations impacted by China hacking campaign WASHINGTON (AP) — A top White House official says at least eight U.S. telecom firms and dozens of nations have been impacted by a Chinese hacking campaign. Deputy national security adviser Anne Neuberger offered the new details Wednesday about the breadth of the sprawling Chinese hacking campaign that gave officials in Beijing access to private texts and phone conversations of an unknown number of Americans. Neuberger divulged the scope of the hack a day after the FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency issued guidance intended to help root out the hackers and prevent similar cyberespionage in the future. White House officials cautioned that a number of telecommunication firms and countries impacted could still grow. Pete Hegseth's mother says The New York Times made 'threats' by asking her to comment on a story A basic tenet of journalism — calling someone for comment on a story — was seen as a threat by defense secretary nominee Pete Hegseth's mother. Penelope Hegseth appeared on Fox News Channel to talk about her son, whose nomination by President-elect Trump to lead the Pentagon is threatened by a series of stories about his past behavior. One came this past weekend, when The New York Times wrote about a private email Penelope Hegseth sent to her son about his treatment of women. She said on Fox News that she felt threatened when the Times called her about the email, which she had quickly regretted sending. The Times said they were engaging in routine journalism. District of Columbia says Amazon secretly stopped fast deliveries to 2 predominantly Black ZIP codes The District of Columbia is alleging in a lawsuit that Amazon secretly stopped providing its fastest delivery service to residents of two predominantly Black neighborhoods in the city. The district says the online retailer still charged residents of two ZIP codes millions of dollars for a service that provides speedy deliveries. The complaint filed on Wednesday in District of Columbia Superior Court revolves around Amazon’s Prime membership service. The lawsuit alleges Amazon in mid-2022 imposed what it called a delivery “exclusion” on the two low-income ZIP codes. An Amazon spokesperson says the company made the change based on concerns about driver safety. The spokesperson says claims that Amazon's business practices are discriminatory are “categorically false.” Biden says 'Africa is the future' as he pledges millions more on the last day of Angola visit LOBITO, Angola (AP) — President Joe Biden has pledged another $600 million for an ambitious multi-country rail project in Africa as one of the final foreign policy moves of his administration. He told African leaders Wednesday that the resource-rich continent of more than 1.4 billion people had been “left behind for much too long. But not anymore. Africa is the future.” Biden used the third and final day of his visit to Angola to showcase the Lobito Corridor railway. The U.S. and allies are investing heavily to refurbish train lines in Zambia, Congo and Angola in a region rich in critical minerals to counter China's influence. The end of an Eras tour approaches, marking a bittersweet moment for Taylor Swift fans NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — The global phenomenon that is Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour is coming to an end after the popstar performed more than 150 shows across five continents over nearly two years. Since launching the tour in 2023, Swift has shattered sales and attendance records. It's even created such an economic boom that the Federal Reserve took note. But for many who attended the concerts, and the millions more who eagerly watched on their screens, the tour also became a beacon of joy. It's become a chance not only to appreciate Swift’s expansive music career, but also celebrate the yearslong journey fans have taken with her. US senators grill officials from 5 airlines over fees for seats and checked bags A U.S. Senate subcommittee is taking aim at airlines and their growing use of fees for things like early boarding and better seats. Members of the Senate Permanent on Investigations say airlines have raised billions of dollars by imposing fees that are getting hard to understand and even harder to avoid paying. The senators and the Biden administration call them “junk fees,” and they say the extra charges are making travel less affordable. Some senators expressed frustration during a hearing on Wednesday hearing when airline executives couldn't explain how they set various fees. Airlines say fees let consumers pay for things they want, like more legroom, and avoid paying for things they don't want.Global P&C Insurance Software Market Size, Share and Forecast By Key Players-Jenesis Software,VRC Insurance Systems,Insurance Systems,Tigerlab,Owsy

The ghosts of Stonewall are watching: How trans activists are channeling history in the fight for their lives